Effects of moisture content and additives on the ensiling quality and vitamins changes of alfalfa silage with or without rain damage.

We investigated the effects of moisture, rain damage, and additives on fermentation quality and vitamins change in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) silage. Two moisture content alfalfa (53 and 72% moisture content) were received artificial rain damage. Then, the formic acid and L. plantarum (LP) + sucrose were added. After 30 days, silos were opened. The significant interaction between rain damage and moisture content were found for nutrients and fermentation characteristics in alfalfa silage, which showed more rain damage effects occurred in 53% moisture content rather than in 72% moisture content material. Treatment with LP + sucrose had lower pH value, ammonia-N/total N, and higher lactic acid content compared to the other additives. The concentrations of α-tocopherol and phylloquinone increased, but thiamine, riboflavin, and ascorbic acid decreased in alfalfa silage treated with LP + sucrose, especially when the alfalfa was subjected to rain damage. The highly significant correlations were found between pantothenic acid (VB5) and pH, and between VB5 and lactic acid. The improvements in fermentation quality by adding of LP + sucrose was observed after rain damage for either 53% or 72% moisture alfalfa, which can be a guideline for forage processor who ensiles alfalfa after rain damage.
(© 2020 Japanese Society of Animal Science.)